HAL says no word on Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft, reaffirms strong order book

HAL said it has received no official communication on reports claiming it has been dropped from the AMCA programme, and declined to comment at this stage.

State-run aerospace major Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) on Wednesday said it has received no official communication on reports claiming it has been knocked out of the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) programme, even as sources said three private firms have emerged as frontrunners in the fifth-generation fighter project.

In a clarification issued amid growing speculation, HAL said it is “not in a position to comment” on the reports at this stage and will keep stakeholders informed once there is official communication. The company also underlined its strong order book and long-term growth plans.

“Various media reports regarding the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) programme have come to HAL’s attention. HAL has not received any official communication in this regard and, therefore, is not in a position to comment on these reports at this stage,” the statement said. “HAL would like to reiterate that it has a robust confirmed order book, providing strong revenue visibility, and a healthy production and execution pipeline extending up to 2032.”

HAL added that it is simultaneously advancing multiple strategic programmes, including the Indian Multi Role Helicopter (IMRH), LCA Mk2 and the Combat Air Teaming System (CATS), which are expected to enter production after 2032. It also highlighted diversification in civil aviation through platforms such as the Dhruv NG, Hindustan 228 and the SJ 100 to ensure sustainable growth.

Meanwhile, sources told India Today that India’s ambitious AMCA programme has taken a decisive turn, with HAL no longer in contention after technical scrutiny of bids submitted by seven Indian entities. According to sources familiar with the evaluation process, only three private sector firms met the mandatory criteria and have been shortlisted for the next stage.

The companies shortlisted are Tata Advanced Systems, Larsen & Toubro (L&T) and Bharat Forge. These firms will move to the commercial bidding stage and are expected to partner the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) to manufacture five flying prototypes and one structural test specimen of the AMCA.